Matthew, 27, died Saturday after battling depression for much of his life, according to a statement released by the pastor.

“Today after a fun evening together with Kay and me, in a momentary wave of despair at his home, he took his own life,” Warren said.

He described Matthew as a “kind, gentle and compassionate man” with a “brilliant intellect” who was sensitive to the needs of others.

“Kay and I often marveled at his courage to keep moving in spite of his relentless pain.”

“I’ll never forget how, many years ago, after another approach had failed to give relief, Matthew said, ‘Dad, I know I’m going to heaven. Why can’t I just die and end this pain?’ But he kept going for another decade.”